How to Select a Contractor

Step #1

Search and choose: Doing some homework

You can waste countless hours going through the yellow pages, and contacting government directories to find a contractor. Instead use the Internet, which is your most powerful tool, in searching for the best contractor. Search the Better Business Bureau, Angie’s List, and Merchant Circle, which are the top three screened and approved directories on the web. Check for any unresolved complaints, or any unsatisfied workmanship reported.

Step #2

Do a Background Check: Screening to qualify

The best roofing companies will gladly provide you referrals, testimonials, and a list of addresses of jobs that they’ve completed. Ask the company to provide these items before requesting an inspection or estimate. Double check your intuition by contacting the companies’ former customers to research what kind of experience you can expect to have.

Step #3

Interview: Get to know your contractor

Set up a meeting to discuss your needs and their qualifications, and be sure to pay close attention to the attitude of the company representative. Good contractors take pride in their work and will be enthusiastic about the possibility of helping you with your problems. If you feel confident that the contractor is truly interested in your project, ask for the company’s vital statistics-specific business information which will help you make your final decision. These include their relationship with their Manufacturer or Brand of Product they use, Distributor, and a Warranty in writing.

Step #4

Choosing Roof Material – Utilizing the Roofing Contractor’s Product Knowledge

Your contractor should have up-to-date knowledge on quality products for your project. He or she is the best source of information, but you should play an active role in the product selection process. Ask questions about different materials such as brand names, life span, thickness, design, available colors and warranties. Selecting the best products is as important to your job as selecting the right contractor.

Step #5

Negotiate & Contract: Begin the process

A contractor who takes the time to prepare a detailed proposal will most likely do a more thorough job. All items to be accomplished should be written as part of your contract. It’s important that your contractor can provide you with a road map of work to be completed from start to finish. At this point of the process, your contractor should honor any reasonable request to negotiate the final price if he or she is eager to earn your business.